Escaped zebra stops traffic on Nevada road

Couple captures video of zebra wandering down Reno street before being returned home

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

A couple traveling on a road in Reno, Nevada, captured video of an unusual traffic hazard - an escaped zebra wandering down the middle of the street. The zebra, named Ziggy, had escaped from its owner's property and was on the loose for about 10-15 minutes before being safely returned home. Washoe County Regional Animal Services responded to the incident but was unable to locate the zebra initially.

Why it matters

Zebra sightings on public roads are extremely rare, making this an unusual and newsworthy event. While Washoe County does not have special regulations for zebra ownership, the incident highlights the potential risks and challenges of keeping exotic animals as pets and the need for proper safety measures to prevent escapes.

The details

Jennifer Oliver and her husband John were driving on Huffaker Lane in Reno when they encountered the zebra in the middle of the road. They captured video of the zebra and posted it to the Nextdoor social media platform. Washoe County Regional Animal Services was notified and sent an officer to the area, but the zebra had already been returned home by the time they arrived. The owner of the zebra, named Ziggy, confirmed the animal had escaped from their property for a brief period.

  • On Sunday, the zebra was spotted wandering on Huffaker Lane in Reno.
  • The zebra was on the loose for approximately 10-15 minutes before being safely returned home.

The players

Jennifer Oliver

A Reno resident who captured video of the escaped zebra on the road.

John Oliver

Jennifer Oliver's husband, who was also in the car when they encountered the zebra.

Washoe County Regional Animal Services

The local animal control agency that responded to the incident but was unable to locate the zebra initially.

Ziggy

The name of the escaped zebra that was safely returned to its owner.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks and challenges of keeping exotic animals as pets, and the importance of having proper safety measures in place to prevent escapes that could endanger the public.